Maryland Marijuana Laws

In 2013, Maryland enacted its state-approved medicinal marijuana program. However, Maryland would not see medical marijuana sales begin until the end of 2017.

In between this time, the state made steps towards lessening the illegality of Maryland cannabis possession and its products. Such progress includes the 2014 decriminalization of possessing 10 grams or less and a 2016 bill doing the same for paraphernalia.

While the list of medical marijuana states continues to grow, sentiment in Maryland is shifting towards joining a growing number of states to approve adult use sales. In just a few short years, an increasing number of Marylanders have turned support for marijuana legalization. Today, here is how you can gain access to medical cannabis in Maryland.

Possession

In Maryland, possession is based on a 30-day supply. The state imposes a cap of 120 grams (about four ounces) for possession at any time unless a patient receives a special determination from a physician stating that a 120 gram 30-day supply is an inadequate treatment.

Similarly so, patients are limited to 36 grams of THC extract per month.

Purchasing Limits

Maryland does not state any purchasing limits for how much a patient may purchase during a single visit to a dispensary. However, patients and caregivers should refer to the allowances for possession to determine the max amount of cannabis they are allowed to purchase per 30 days.

Consumption

Approved patients can consume cannabis via smoking, vaporizers, extracts, topicals, tinctures and as add-ons to food, though edibles are not sold in Maryland dispensaries. Additionally, patients cannot possess or consume their cannabis on any federal property in the state.

Currently, there is no language discussing where patients are legally allowed to consume medical cannabis. However, we’d recommend following practices set forth in other states that limit consumption to private properties out of view from the public.

Qualifying Patients

Additionally, physicians have the ability to recommend patients if medicinal marijuana is in their best interest.

Driving Under the Influence

Driving under the influence of medical marijuana in Maryland is illegal. Patients are not exempt from civil, criminal or any other penalties and could face similar charges enforced in alcohol DUI cases. It’s never worth it to drive under the influence – especially with the plethora of ride-sharing options available. Always make plans to have a designated driver if you are going to be consuming cannabis.

Transporting Marijuana

The state allows legal medical marijuana patients to travel anywhere in the state with their medicine, except for federal property. Maryland’s Medical Cannabis Commission emphasizes that all patients be aware of current laws around the transporting of medical marijuana outside of the state, as it remains a federal offense. It is highly recommended that your medical marijuana stay in Maryland at all times.

Exporting Marijuana

Due to existing federal regulations, the Maryland does not authorize the exporting of medicinal marijuana outside of Maryland’s borders. People who transport cannabis across state lines may face steep penalties that are certainly not worth the risk.

Cultivation

Only state-approved growers are permitted to cultivate medical marijuana in Maryland.